Bicycle Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance keeps your bike safe, reliable, and performing at its best. Here are essential tips every cyclist should know.

Weekly Maintenance (5 Minutes)

✅ Quick Safety Check

• Brakes: Squeeze levers — should feel firm with good stopping power
• Tires: Check pressure (inflate if needed) and look for cuts or wear
• Chain: Should be clean and properly lubricated
• Bolts: Quick visual check that nothing is loose
• Lights: Test front and rear lights if riding at night

Monthly Maintenance (30 Minutes)

1. Deep Clean

You’ll need: Bucket, mild soap, sponge, brushes, degreaser, rags

1. Rinse bike with water (avoid high pressure on bearings)
2. Apply soapy water and scrub frame, wheels, and components
3. Degrease chain, cassette, and chainrings
4. Rinse thoroughly
5. Dry with clean rags
6. Lubricate chain after drying

2. Chain Lubrication

Steps:

1. Clean chain with degreaser and brush
2. Wipe dry completely
3. Apply lube to inside of chain while rotating pedals backward
4. Let sit 5 minutes
5. Wipe off excess lube

Lube types:
• Wet lube: For rainy/muddy conditions
• Dry lube: For dry, dusty conditions
• All-weather: Good compromise for variable conditions

3. Tire Inspection

• Check for embedded debris (glass, thorns)
• Look for cracks or excessive wear in tread
• Inspect sidewalls for damage
• Ensure proper pressure (check sidewall for PSI range)

Seasonal Maintenance (2-3 Times/Year)

🔧 Professional Service Items:

• Brake adjustment: Pad alignment and cable tension
• Gear adjustment: Derailleur tuning for smooth shifting
• Wheel truing: Straightening any wobbles
• Bearing check: Headset, bottom bracket, hubs
• Cable replacement: If frayed or corroded

Signs You Need Professional Help

• ❌ Grinding or clicking noises
• ❌ Gears skipping or not shifting smoothly
• ❌ Brakes rubbing or not stopping effectively
• ❌ Wobbling wheels
• ❌ Loose or rough-feeling components
• ❌ Unusual vibrations while riding

Essential Tools for Home Maintenance

Maintenance Schedule Summary

Conclusion

Regular maintenance prevents costly repairs and keeps you safe on the road. When in doubt, bring your bike to our expert mechanics!